How to Build a Plastic Model Aircraft

Model airplane building can be a fun hobby.

Plastic model hobbyists enjoy constructing replicas of all types and skill levels. While automobiles are common, many model builders prefer to make airplanes, particularly those that have been used in war or been part of famous historical incidents. Building a model airplane is not hard, and it can be a chance to indulge your creativity while learning about aviation history and technology.

Things You'll Need

• Airplane model kit
• Model glue
• Craft knife
• Toothpicks
• Model paint
• Paintbrushes

Instructions

1. Remove the parts from the model's box. Spread them out on a flat surface. Compare the parts to the instruction sheet that shipped with the model kit to ensure that all parts are present and accounted for.

2. Separate the parts of the model based on their color. Leave small parts attached to the frames that they came on so that they will be less complicated to hold and paint later. Note that some basic model kits are color-coded to make painting easier.

3. Paint the wheels of the model airplane while holding them with a toothpick.

4. Use a craft knife to remove the plastic spurs that may be attached to any parts separated from the frames before you apply glue to them.

5. Follow the enclosed instructions to build the model. Apply model glue sparingly. Excessive glue could burn the plastic and create a large mess that could make the rest of the model harder to put together.

6. Complete the model and allow its glue to dry completely. Apply any decals that came enclosed in the model kit. Paint the model based on any paint chart that came enclosed with the kit. Add extra detail by creating your own paint scheme.

Tips & Warnings

• Use model paint and glue in a well ventilated area.

References

• Model Airplane Building: Welcome to Model Airplane Building
• Model Aces: Modeling Tutorials